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Are hearing loss and balance dysfunction linked in construction iron workers?
K H Kilburn1, R H Warshaw, B Hanscom
1University of Southern California School of Medicine, Environmental Sciences Laboratory, Los Angeles 90033.
British Journal of Industrial Medicine
|February 1, 1992
Summary
Construction workers exposed to noise, like iron workers, experience hearing loss and impaired balance. This occupational hazard may increase the risk of falls and injuries.
Area of Science:
- Occupational Health
- Audiology
- Biomechanics
Background:
- Noise exposure in the workplace is a significant concern for worker safety.
- Construction workers, particularly those using power tools, face high noise levels.
- Hearing loss and balance dysfunction are potential health consequences of occupational noise exposure.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between hearing loss and balance dysfunction in construction workers.
- To compare the hearing and balance of noise-exposed iron workers with histology technicians.
Main Methods:
- Pure tone audiometry and balance testing were conducted.
- A sound emitter and dual microphone system were utilized for testing.
- 78 iron workers were compared with 128 histology technicians.
Main Results:
- Iron workers exhibited hearing loss, especially below 3000 Hz.
- Significantly faster sway speeds were observed in iron workers (eyes open and closed).
- A significant correlation was found between hearing loss and impaired balance.
Conclusions:
- Exposure to noise from power tools leads to premature hearing loss and impaired balance in iron workers.
- Balance dysfunction may contribute to falls, a major cause of injury and death in this occupation.
- Further research is needed to confirm the link between these impairments and fall-related injuries.